United Iron Works - Oakland, CA

Like most San Francisco Bay Area foundries, United Iron Works originated to serve the maritime industry. At the turn of the century United began producing fire hydrants based on Morris Greenberg's new wet barrel design known as the "California Hydrant." In 1909 United was awarded the contract to produce the huge high pressure dry barrel hydrants for post-earthquake San Francisco.

United continued producing hydrants until World War II where the foundry was converted for military production purposes. In the Pacific Coast Fire Chief magazine for September-October of 1932 appeared this United Iron Works hydrant advertisement.

Except as noted, restored hydrants shown are from the Willis Lamm Collection.
FHO#: 0559
Date: 1880s
Location: Fire Station #24 - Oakland, CA
Photo: © 2000, Willis Lamm
Restored by Oakland F.D. 		FHO#: 0633
Model: Single 2½"
Date: 1906
Location: San Pablo, CA, CA
Photo: © 2000, Willis Lamm Collection
(Click here for bonnet view.)
FHO#: 0636
Date: 1915
Location: Richmond, CA
Photo: © 2000, Willis Lamm Collection 		FHO#: 0510
Model: Double 2½"
Date: 1920s
Location: Rio Vista, CA
Photo: © 2000, Willis Lamm
FHO#: 0605
Date: 1925
Location: Alameda County, CA
Photo: © 2000, Willis Lamm Collection 		FHO#: 0511
Model: 641-1
Date: 1928
Location: Oakland, CA
Photo: © 2000, Willis Lamm Notes: Single 3" outlet w/ 2½" reducing collar and new cap installed after Oakland firestorm. (Oakland abanoned 3" standard for compatibility with surrounding agencies.)
FHO#: 0615
Model: 641-2
Date: 1932
Location: Oakland, CA
Photo: © 2000, Willis Lamm Collection
 		FHO#: 0637
Model: 639
Date: 1934
Location: Alameda County, CA
Photo: © 2000, Willis Lamm Collection
FHO#: 0140
Date: 1909
Location: San Francisco
Photo: © 2000, Danny Barlogio
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